(Phnom Penh): Cambodia has taken a major step toward expanding global connectivity after the Council of Ministers approved draft legislation to ratify the Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement between ASEAN and the European Union — the first aviation accord linking two major regional blocs.

The pact, covering 37 countries, liberalizes international air transport and grants airlines expanded traffic rights, including third, fourth and fifth freedom operations. Once fully implemented, officials say the deal could open the door to direct flights between Cambodia and Europe, encourage new airline routes and boost investment, tourism, trade and jobs.

Cambodia is also expected to benefit from enhanced aviation safety standards, closer cooperation with European and ASEAN aviation authorities, and greater transparency and fair competition for Cambodian carriers.

Negotiated since 2016, the agreement has already been ratified by 14 countries — including 12 EU members and two ASEAN states. Cambodia’s approval signals its readiness to integrate more deeply into a liberalized regional aviation market and strengthen its role as an emerging hub for Southeast Asia–Europe connectivity.

This article was first published on KPT English.
=FRESH NEWS